Asphalt for pavement on driveways is known as one of the more cost-effective types of material, despite providing an even coat that is much easier to repair than concrete. But like all things, asphalt will eventually cave into the elements. To help your asphalt look brand new for a longer period, here are a couple of things you need to know.
How Long Does the Average Asphalt Pavement Driveway Last?
The shelf life of asphalt pavement will vary due to many factors throughout its years of use. On average, you can expect it to last from 20–30 years before needing a total replacement. But with regular maintenance, it is possible to extend that service life by five to ten years.
Without regular maintenance, 90 percent of your asphalt driveway will maintain its structural integrity after ten years of use. It may lose half of its durability after 20 years. To prolong its lifespan, here are some tips you can follow to save money in the long run.
3 Ways to Preserve Your Asphalt Pavement
1) Create a Proper Water Drainage System
The weather should be one of your biggest concerns when it comes to preserving your asphalt pavement. An overwhelming amount of rainwater can cause some wear and tear after a couple of years. To avoid this, you need to invest in a proper drainage system to keep the water off your driveway.
Proper subsurface drainage will redirect rainwater flow from your driveway. Integrate an aggregate base with quality class 5 aggregate to make sure rainwater flows rapidly in the opposite direction.
2) Apply Sealcoating Regularly
Sealcoating is the most important thing you need to do to keep your asphalt pavement alive. This is the element that keeps your driveway protected from outside fluids and degrading even further from weather and continuous use.
You can apply the coating a year after installation of the pavement and then schedule every two or three years after to keep the pavement from turning too rough, dry, and vulnerable to cracking.
3) Other Small yet Important Maintenance Practices
There are plenty of regular monthly or perhaps weekly maintenance practices that can help keep your asphalt pavement around for longer. Here are a few important ones:
- When your car starts to leak, it is a problem that you have to address for both your car and driveway. Once you take care of the leak, go back to your driveway to take care of oil spills.
- If cracks start to form and you notice weeds growing in between, pull them out and reseal the cracks
- Shovel snow out of the driveway when winter comes along.
Conclusion
Asphalt pavement is a cost-effective driveway material that can only be maximized to its fullest when you do proper maintenance. These tips may seem small, but a little goes a long way. These little steps can extend the life of your driveway for another five to ten years down the road.
If you’re looking for contractors with services for asphalt pavement in Edmonton, then pick the ones with the skills and experience to match. W&W Construction is a full-service paving contractor that offers both commercial and residential pavement in the surrounding areas. Call us to request a quote today!
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